Internal Fanout Optical Splitter Layout for Higher Port Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical splitter modules require increased space as more subscribers are added to optical fiber networks, limiting the available space in hubs and nodes.
Innovation Solution
High-density optical splitter modules utilizing ultra bend performance fiber and beneficial fanout designs, with a fanout device that allows for a higher number of splits per cubic inch, including a non-linear shape or diagonal extension, and providing strain relief for optical fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the number of output ports in optical splitter modules is increased to meet growing subscriber demand, then the signal splitting capacity is improved, but the space occupied in Fiber Distribution Hubs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fanout device is integrated within the optical splitter module housing, nesting the fiber routing structure inside the existing module volume. This allows the module to accommodate more output ports without increasing its external dimensions, as the fanout device efficiently utilizes the internal space to route fibers from the splitter to the output ports.
Solution Approach 2:
The fanout device introduces a new spatial dimension for fiber routing by creating a layered structure where fibers are distributed in multiple planes and levels within the module. This three-dimensional fiber arrangement allows higher density packing of output ports without increasing the module's footprint or height.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more optical splitter modules are deployed to serve additional subscribers, then the network coverage is improved, but the available space in Fiber Distribution Hubs is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The compact design nests all necessary components (splitter, fanout device, fiber routing structures) within a standardized module housing, maximizing the utilization of each module's internal volume. This allows more modules to be stacked or arranged in the same hub space, thereby improving network coverage without consuming additional hub real estate.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter module is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different splitting ratios (e.g., 1:8, 1:16, 1:32) by configuring the fanout device with appropriate numbers of openings and fiber routing paths. This multi-functionality allows a single module design to serve various subscriber densities, optimizing space utilization across different deployment scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical splitter module for splitting an input signal from an input optical fiber is provided. The optical splitter module includes the input optical fiber, output optical fibers, and a splitter device configured to split the input signal from the input optical fiber into a plurality of output signals that are each directed into one of the output optical fibers. The optical splitter module also includes a fanout device defining openings that are each configured to receive one of the output optical fibers. The optical splitter module defines an internal volume and an exit cavity. The input optical fiber, the output optical fibers, the splitter device, and the fanout device are each received in the internal volume. The fanout device defines a side length, the exit cavity defines a width, and the side length of the fanout device is greater than the width of the exit cavity.